Rita "Pinkie" Estrada, age 89, of San Angelo, Texas, passed away peacefully on Friday, October 18, 2024. Born on June 4, 1935, in San Angelo, she was the beloved daughter of John Aldrete Estrada, Sr. and Mary Enriquez.
Rita, affectionately known as Pinkie, graduated from San Angelo High School in 1953. She dedicated her professional life to GTE, where she worked for 20 years. Beyond her career, Rita was a devout member of St. Joseph Catholic Church, where she found great joy in teaching Catechism to children. Her nurturing spirit, infectious laughter, and zest for life, especially her love for dancing, left an indelible mark on all who knew her.
Rita's life will be celebrated with a Rosary at Johnson's Funeral Home at 6 PM on Monday, October, 28, 2024. A Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 10 AM on Tuesday, October 29, 2024, at St. Joseph Catholic Church, with burial at Johnson's Lawnhaven Memorial Gardens.
Serving as pallbearers are Tavori White, James Coleman, John Maldonado, Alejandro Cuellar, Jesse Nava, and Joe Carrasco. Serving as honorary pallbearers are Taven White, Braylon White, and Jase Coleman.
The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate nurses, aides, and Pastor from High Plains Senior Care Hospice who cared for Rita in her final days.
Rita was preceded in death by her parents, her brother John (Buddy) Estrada, Jr., and several cherished cousins and friends.
Rita leaves behind a legacy of love and kindness. She is survived by her sister Patricia Estrada Maldonado and sister-in-law Nancy Castanuela. Her memory will also be cherished by nieces Kristy Maldonado, Jessica Estrada, and Lisa Estrada; nephews John Maldonado (Alejandro) and Jesse Nava (Melissa); great-nieces Elena, Eden, and Eva Estrada; and great-nephews Michael Sevier and Marcus Estrada (Eileen).
Rita's warmth, generosity, and unwavering faith inspired all who were fortunate to know her. Her spirit will live on in the hearts of her family and friends. She will be dearly missed.
